Are You Prepped to Prevent a Cold

By Brian Maynor

 

Fall may have just officially started yesterday, but as I sit here feeling clammy, sniffling and just a bit under the weather I thought it would be the perfect time to talk about how to prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season.

Nothing can ruin a morning faster than having to see or worse interact with someone exhibiting the tale-tale signs of a cold.  It seems that simply looking at the red nose, weepy eyes and the box of tissues stashed at their desk as well as their pockets are enough to cause you to start feeling ill instantly.

Luckily there are things you can do right now to significantly reduce your risk of participating in the office cold rotation.  Here’s the breakdown:

1.    Wash your hands the right way.  Simply running your hands under some running water, even with a little soap isn’t going to do much to kill the germs on them.  To really benefit you need to run your hands under warm water before applying soap and then wash your hands, wrists and nails for at least 20 seconds.  It will seem like a long time, but you need it to properly remove the grime.

2.    Clean your desk.  Look around your desk at all the things you touch during the day and then grab a pack of Clorox wipes and start cleaning.  Wipe down anything you place your hands on being sure not to skip the drawers, door knobs and light switches.

3.    Check your stress.  We all know stress weakens your immune system, so be sure to monitor your levels regularly, not just when you hit a wall.  Desk yoga, deep breathing and even a moment sitting with your eyes closed are all quick and easy ways to curb anxiety and decrease stress during the day.

4.    Go outside.  Not only will the fresh air do you good, exercise is a great way to bolster your immune system, as well as reduce stress.  A walk around the block at lunch or even just for ten minutes will do wonders for your perspective and health.

5.    Hydrate.  Staying hydrated is the best way to keep toxins out of your system, so be sure to keep a bottle of water or cup of hot tea on hand.  Otherwise it’s easy to go all day with little to no fluid intake.  That being said, not all liquids are the same.  Lay off the alcohol and sodas if you want your immune system in top fighting form.

6.    Send sick people home.  What is it about being sick that turns people into martyrs?  If you don’t feel well, particularly if you’re running a fever, go home.  Not only can you rest and get the sleep your body needs to fight back, you aren’t going to spread your germs to everyone else.  Trust me no one is going to applaud your dedication for coming in sick.  In fact they’ll probably resent you for it.

There is a big difference between allergies and a cold, as anyone who suffers from them knows.  So heed the warning signs if you are getting sick and take these precautionary steps if you’re not.  It’s always prettier to prevent a cold than fight one.

 

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I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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